Hiring a car from Palermo is essential if you want to really gain a true understanding of the island, its cities, its landscapes and its people. Sicily is almost 1,000 square miles of undulating hills and sloping olive groves, mountainous expanses and secluded beaches, not to mention the many UNESCO World Heritage sites. There’s so much to see, do and experience, only a car will let you do Sicily justice.

From Palermo, there are a number of key routes to explore. Head east along the E90, which runs parallel to the island’s northernmost coast line, taking in the stunning sea views as you go.

Stop off at the pretty town of Santo Stefano di Camastra to enjoy the artisan ceramics produced here. Then, head inland down the SS117 towards Sicily’s two national parks – Parco Delle Madonie for the tranquil hills and Parco dei Nebrodi for thick forests, soaring mountains and cool, clear lakes.

Alternatively, use Palermo as your base for a journey heading south west via the SS264 towards the island’s southern coast. Visit the pretty historic fishing port of Sciacca, the medieval city of Agrigento or the tourist hotspot of Comiso. 

There are a few toll roads in Sicily, including the A20, which runs between Palermo and Messina, so always have a handful of coins available. If you have any questions about driving in Palermo, speak to our team who will be able to answer any questions you may have.

As the capital city of the largest island in the Mediterranean, Palermo is a fabulously vibrant place to visit as a tourist. The city itself has something of a split personality - its culture and heritage embrace both western and eastern ideologies. This is evident in the food, the architecture, and the attitude of the people, making for a colourful, fascinating trip. 

Urban pursuits

There’s much to recommend a stay in Palermo but if you’re feeling peckish, make sure you pay a visit to the Mercato di Ballaro. This super busy street market is a real melting pot for all the area’s best food producers. Stock up on delicious local cheeses, succulent olives, cured meats and more.

Palermo is also home to Italy’s largest opera house, the neoclassical Teatro Massimo, which has been staging large-scale shows for over 1,000 people since 1897. The theatre took 20 years to construct, and you can take a guided tour to learn all about this beautiful building. If you’re wanting to experience more of the theatre, check what shows are on while you’re in Palermo.

Once you’re done taking in the incredible theatre, head to the city’s 12^th century cathedral. Marvel at the different architectural styles as you walk around the building and view the royal tombs which are housed inside.

If you’re looking for a lighter pastime, the Opera dei Pupi, a traditional puppet theatre, may be to your taste. Telling local stories through the medium of puppetry is a key tradition across the island of Sicily and this one is great for kids and adults alike.

Sea and sand

Car hire from Palermo opens up a wealth of sightseeing opportunities across Sicily, but it also gives you access to a fantastic array of beaches, coves and harbours across the island.

One of the best-known beaches is Mondello, which is around a 30 minute drive from the centre of Palermo. This crescent-shaped beach is nestled between two cliffs and boasts sugar-soft, pale gold sand and shallow waters.

Island life

Sicily, in its place at the toe of Italy’s kicking boot, packs a lot of landscape into one island. Mount Etna sleeps to the east, the awe-inspiring Nebrodi mountains are a little further north, the lowlands to the west are strewn with wild flower meadows and migratory birds, and the aquamarine sea washes all about, holding Sicily in its romantic embrace.

And that’s to say nothing of the Golfo di Castellammare - your view should you arrive via Palermo Airport will be of this seemingly endless sandy promontory, lapped as it is by gentle waters. Driving through this incredible and changeable landscape is a joy for tourists and one to relish at every turn.